Collaboration and integration towards zero carbon refurbishment: A New Zealand case study

Abstract

In light of climate change, zero carbon refurbishment for existing buildings is imperative for maximising carbon emission reductions. Due to the increasing complexity of reducing carbon emissions for existing buildings, there is a need for a more collaborative and integrative approach. Extensive research has shown the importance, benefits, and challenges of collaboration and integration in implementing sustainable buildings. However, little attention has been paid to investigating collaboration and integration in refurbishment projects that focus on reducing life cycle carbon emissions. This paper explores the collaboration and integration in the decision-making process towards zero carbon refurbishment by examining three real-life case studies in New Zealand. The findings resulted from an interactive cross-case analysis using replication logic within and among cases. Empirically, the study emphasises the importance of (1) organisational commitment and compatibility of team members, (2) the timely involvement of key stakeholders, (3) the highest level of integration in the design process, and (4) a centralised and integrated information system. The paper also divulges the current practices and challenges faced in the integration process, where lessons learnt are identified for future refurbishment projects. A collaboration and integration framework towards successfully delivering building projects towards zero carbon is proposed. The research implications may assist the real-world uptake of the zero‑carbon refurbishment approach by promoting effective collaboration and integration.